Durban is ready! Fans make bold predictions on Bafana Bafana's clash with Zimbabwe
Fans are confident that South Africa will come out on top tonight. Many believe Bafana Bafana’s history against Zimbabwe, combined with their hunger for points after recent setbacks, gives them the edge.
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The city of Durban is ready.
Bafana Bafana arrived yesterday to a boisterous welcome, with supporters waving flags, singing and chanting.
Tonight, the team steps onto Moses Mabhida Stadium to face Zimbabwe in a decisive CAF FIFA World Cup qualifier.
It’s a return to familiar ground.
Bafana Bafana’s first match at Moses Mabhida was a 3-0 win over Zimbabwe in a friendly ahead of the 2010 World Cup.
Tonight, they aim not only for three points but also for momentum after recent setbacks and the pressure surrounding the points deduction saga involving Teboho Mokoena and FIFA.
“Independent Media” gathered fan views ahead of the kickoff.
Sanele Masondo believes history favours South Africa, predicting a 2-1 win over Zimbabwe.
“We usually have the upper hand against Zimbabwe. The pressure is there because of the FIFA-Mokoena situation, but this is their home game. Kaitano Tembo knows he’s in for a fight. I haven’t decided where I’ll be watching yet, but if not at the stadium, I’ll be at Shorty’s Corner in Inanda with my friends.”
Philisiwe Hlongwane, popularly known as The Diski Girl, attended both teams’ training sessions yesterday.
Hlongwane said, “It’s going to be tough because South Africa needs the points. From what I saw at training, both teams are hungry for the win.”
She will be watching the game at the Moses Mabhida Stadium and predicts a 3-1 victory for Bafana Bafana.
Luvo Smith, watching from Pretoria North, believes urgency will drive the squad. He predicted a 3-1 win for Bafana Bafana, naming Oswin Appollis and Mohau Nkota as the likely scorers.
“I foresee a Bafana victory because of how badly they need the points, especially after the deduction. They know there’s no room for error.”
Support has also come from the Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie, who called on fans through social media: “There are still 15,000 tickets left for the game today, please get your tickets."
"We must make this a home game. There is a strong chance we will qualify today. Let’s show maximum love to the players and coaching team.”
Kickoff is at 6pm, and the Moses Mabhida Stadium is expected to roar.
Irrespective of predictions, all eyes will be on the game.